Ulysse Nardin was born in Le Locle in 1823. Starting out as an apprentice to his father Léonard-Frédéric, he went to work with William DuBois, one of the greatest experts of his age in precision timepieces. In 1846, at the tender age of 23, Ulysse Nardin founded the company that still bears his name today, in Le Locle. His pocket and marine chronometers soon set the benchmark in both civil and military realms. When he died in 1876, his son Paul-David took the helm.

Crowned by more than 4,300 watchmaking awards including 18 gold medals, the firm nonetheless had to be put up for sale in 1983 after falling victim to the quartz crisis. Living in Asia, where he worked in the watchmaking industry, Rolf W. Schnyder stepped in to take over the company. Out of his ambition was born the legendary Trilogy of Time collection: the Astrolabium Galileo Galilei, the Planetarium Copernicus and the Tellurium Johannes Kepler greatly impressed connoisseurs and confirmed the comeback of Ulysse Nardin as one of the greatest names in Swiss watchmaking.

In 2011, Patrik Hoffman was chosen to become the next CEO after the sudden passing of Rolf W. Schnyder. He recently hosted the opening of the brand’s largest boutique in the world at the Dubai Mall, in partnership with the Bin Hendi Enterprises. Spanning 240 sq. m, the launch of Ulysse Nardin’s biggest boutique was held subsequent to the brand setting up its office in Dubai. Another highlight heralding the launch was the ‘Vivaldi’ watch which was showcased in a first preview before it makes its official debut at forthcoming watch fair, Basel World 2015 in March.

Coming from a background in sales and marketing, he has taken up positions in Malaysia where he lived for 5 years, The United States where he spent 13 years and Switzerland, where he is currently based. He once handled the regional office in North America and the Caribbean and was in charge of the entire business supervision. Under his leadership, Ulysse Nardin enormously expanded its presence in the USA and in the Caribbean. In addition to this, he regularly travels to visit the retail outlets of Ulysse Nardin around the world. The large amount of time spent travelling never bothered him and his family of 5. At some point in life, he found it hard to define the concept of “home.”

In this interview he tells us all about his motto in life, management style and the mentality that helped him succeed.

You were based in several Asian countries throughout your career, so you are an expert on that market of course. What can you say about the Gulf and Middle Eastern markets?

Well I think we want to put more effort here. I think it’s a market which we didn’t tap into too much in the past. We did a lot of our concentration on the U.S., Russia and the ex-Soviet countries. Maybe I would have to admit that we neglected this part of the world. Now we have moved a strong team leader here and we will make a stronger presence. We have to explain the product and the philosophy, for that you need people who are interested and understand these things.

How would you describe yourself now as a CEO in the watch industry?

I think I’m probably not the average CEO. I’m a bit different in the sense that Ulysse Nardin was always family owned. The owner, Rolf Schnyder, who passed away 4 years ago, was an extrovert and an eccentric man. But he always had both feet grounded on the floor. I see myself as a manager, managing a company. I don’t see myself as owning the company. I treat the company as it would be my own, but it’s not my own. Sometimes I feel you meet CEOs that behave as if the company is their own but the key here is only to treat it that way.

This is exactly what I learned from the late Mr. Rolf, to have both feet on the ground for one. Wherever you go, whether it’s Hong Kong, Dubai, The U.S., Moscow, this culture is always in the company. A kind of humbleness is always here. Secondly, people talk about Rolf’s creativity and entrepreneurship, but I admire his courage the most. He had a lot of guts!

You have lived in 3 different continents; tell us about all the moving around that you do.

It’s again related to my philosophy. When somebody asks me how to move up the ladder and advance in one’s career, I state that you have to learn fast and be flexible. Those are the two things that I also tell my 3 sons. When I say flexible, I mean not having too much of a black and white thinking. There are things that are going to come up in your personal and work life which you have to deal with and resolve on your own. This is what I learned from traveling to different countries, that you have to adapt. We have to always be able to adjust numbers, strategies, plans with work as well. Things change and if you don’t adapt you will lose.

“There will be more activity with the new office that we have here in Dubai as well as our largest boutique to date! Dubai is the window to the world, especially the Dubai Mall which has people visiting from literally everywhere.” – Patrik Hoffman

Tell us about all the traveling around that you do. Do you ever tire of it?

I think if you don’t like it, it will be difficult. You have to like it. I don’t even know where I was this year. Japan, Egypt, France a few times, San Francisco, Dubai and the U.S. My three favourite cities are Cape Town, San Francisco and Sydney. They have something which appeals to me.

What is something that attracts loyal customer and connoisseurs to this brand?

What became more important today than it was a few years back is, the true history of the brand. Today people go back in time and they want to see real value. Ulysse Nardin holds a true history. For example we have the anchor logo, but it didn’t come about because of a marketing guru who said to us ‘hey, nobody tapped the sea concept yet, why don’t you use the sea as your marketing tool?’ It’s a true history. We have always been attached to the sea since a hundred years ago. What we do today is always somewhat based on the past. If you say that the marine aspect is appealing, it’s also backed up with a true history.

The Freak watch, who named it?

We worked on the mechanism for 7, 8 years and whenever we work on a product we refer to them with code names or a number. The code name for this was Freak, for many years. It is freaky afterall. In the year 2000, we had to find a name and the late Rolf Schnyder said: ‘Why don’t we call it the Freak?’ That’s part of what I said before that he had guts, we told him he was insane! It’s a watch that might at some stage cost a fortune, you cannot call it a Freak! He said, ‘Yes, we can and we will.’ Today, it holds the most famous name.

Tell us about the Vivaldi timepiece. It strayed away quite a bit from the Marine identity…

It’s very different. In the communication which will be announced after Basel, things will be more Marine oriented but there are certain pieces that you cannot put into the Marine lines. It’s just not possible. The Freak, for example is not Marine. We have the freedom to go out of our boundaries. There are certain things coming out which are “freaky” and don’t fit into those lines. This is where the flexibility comes in again, we don’t want to be slaves of our own philosophy and strategy.

What’s your favourite part of your job and what do you like being most involved in?

See I didn’t expect the question! I thought you would ask about my favourite timepiece, which is what I’m used to being asked. I think it’s probably meeting people, getting things out of people and translating them through to the world. In many ways I am not a creator, a designer or a salesperson, it’s more about conducting the business for me. I bring people together to create. You have a person sitting at a desk in Switzerland putting a timepiece together, who has possible never been outside of Switzerland. Speaking from an extreme perspective. He always lived in that little village and that’s maybe all he knows, but he’s very creative in what he does. The timepieces he works on are being purchased in a flamboyant place like here. So somehow you have to get these two worlds and philosophies together, without any physical contact. The introverted artist from one side, and the person who has the means to purchase on the other.

What are your thoughts then on the reputation that Swiss watchmakers hold in this industry?

Only 50 thousand people in Switzerland are involved in the watch industry, which is a very small number compared to the large image they portray to the world! There are companies that employ 100 or 150 thousand employees like Nestlé for example, but surprisingly enough, the whole watch industry in Switzerland is minuscule compared to the massive influence it has. This is what’s so remarkable about this country.

In the fast-moving world of style, where trends come and go and creative directors are ousted and replaced with nearly as much frequency as Premier League football managers, there’s something reassuring about the enduring success of a company such as Missoni. This tiny knitwear workshop founded by Italian Olympic athlete Mr Ottavio “Tai” Missoni and his wife Rosita in 1953 may have grown into a global, multi-million dollar brand – but it has done so while remaining very much a family affair. This stability has endowed it with a remarkable consistency of vision; its signature zigzag patterns have become one of the most recognisable and consistent motifs in the industry.

Richard James herringbone wool overcoat and Missoni zig zag woven jersey shirt

Missoni striped cashmere and wool blend cardigan, Lanvin slim-fit cotton poplin shirt, Canali brushed cotton blend chinos, Church monk strap shoes

Missoni suede and crochet knit bomber jacket, John Smedley Belvoir wool roll-neck sweater, Canali brushed cotton blend chinos, Church monk strap shoes

Saint Laurent black slim-fit wool tuxedo, Lanvin slim-fit cotton poplin shirt, Turnbull & Asser silk-tie and Missoni zig zag woven scarf

“Missoni is known as a family business. We’re all involved, even if only in ambassadorial roles,” says the 29-year-old, who works as a sales director for the US market. (By “we” he refers to himself, his two brothers and six cousins.) “We advise our elders, too. We’d never tell them what to do, you understand – but they appreciate having us around because we have an intuitive understanding of the market.” Fluent and perceptive, the third-generation Missoni man clearly has a keen commercial brain – and appears especially wise to the challenges and opportunities presented by the rise of online shopping. “Men, especially younger guys, love to buy online,” he says. He appreciates the natural advantage that Missoni has in this arena, too. The patterns and the colours that we’re known for – they really stand out when you see them on a screen,” he explains. “We’re lucky. It’s so much easier to get excited about a colourful Missoni sweater than it is about a black suit.” For all his business acumen, though, it’s on his family that Mr Missoni Jr speaks most freely and passionately. “My grandfather always said that it was vital to work in the kind of place where people go for the weekend,” he says at one point, gesturing to the sleepy, leafy Lombardy countryside around his family home in Sumirago, just north of Milan. “That way, the calm in the air, the colours in the trees as the seasons change… it’s all reflected in the clothes.” It’s clear from his conversation – peppered with anecdotes and recollections that begin, “My grandfather used to say…” or “When I was a boy, my father…” – that Missoni, to him, is nothing without its heritage.

Missoni striped wool blend knitted polo shirt and Haider Ackermann light weight roll-neck sweater

Missoni striped wool blend sweater, Missoni knitted wool sweat pants, Missoni patterned cotton blend socks and John Lobb William suede monk strap shoes

Boglioli unstructured herringbone cotton blazer, Missoni striped cotton jersey t-shirt, Saint Laurent slim fit 17 cm hem denim jeans, Missoni wool scarf

Family-owned businesses are no strange thing in Italy, where the tradition is deeply ingrained. Versace, Ferragamo and Zegna can all attest to this, while household names such as Lavazza and Alessi suggest that this is not something confined to the clothing industry. But what’s unique about Missoni is that it’s genuinely difficult to tell where the family ends and the brand begins; it’s almost as if a few strands of Missoni DNA somehow wound up in the wool, and now find themselves woven in multicoloured zigzags, stripes and geometric waves into the very fabric of the clothes.

Missoni knitted wool blend shawl collar cardigan, Lanvin slim-fit cotton poplin shirt, Missoni slim fit zig zag woven wool blend trousers, Anderson black pebble grey leather belt

Photography by VanMossevelde+N

Styling by Mr Andrea Tenerani

Words by Mr Chris Elvidge, Senior Features Writer, MR PORTER

The Art of Neil Gaiman By Hayley Campbell

Novelist, comics writer, scriptwriter, poet, and occasional artist, there are few creative avenues Neil Gaiman hasn’t ventured down-from unforgettable books like The Ocean at the End of the Lane and American Gods to groundbreaking comics and graphic novels like The Sandman and Violent Cases; from big-screen fantasies like Coraline and Stardust to small-screen epics like Doctor Who and Neverwhere; and from short stories to songwriting, stage plays to radio plays, journalism to filmmaking, and all points in between.

The Art of Neil Gaiman is the first book to tell the full story of his amazing creative life. Never-before-seen manuscripts, notes, cartoons, drawings, and personal photographs from Neil’s own archive are complemented by artwork and sketches from all of his major works and his own intimate recollections. Each project is examined in turn, from genesis to fruition, and positioned in the wider narrative of Gaiman’s creative life, affording unparalleled access to the inner workings of the writer’s mind.

Utterly comprehensive, lavishly illustrated, The Art of Neil Gaiman is the fully authorized account of the life and work of one of the world’s great storytellers.

Courtesy of HarperCollins Publishers – www.harpercollins.com

Magic, adventure, mystery, and romance combine in this epic debut in which a young princess must reclaim her dead mother’s throne, learn to be a ruler-and defeat the Red Queen, a powerful and malevolent sorceress determined to destroy her. On her nineteenth birthday, Princess Kelsea Raleigh Glynn, raised in exile, sets out on a perilous journey back to the castle of her birth to ascend her rightful throne. Plain and serious, a girl who loves books and learning, Kelsea bears little resemblance to her mother, the vain and frivolous Queen Elyssa. But though she may be inexperienced and sheltered, Kelsea is not defenseless: Around her neck hangs the Tearling sapphire, a jewel of immense magical power; and accompanying her is the Queen’s Guard, a cadre of brave knights led by the enigmatic and dedicated Lazarus. Kelsea will need them all to survive a cabal of enemies who will use every weapon-from crimson-caped assassins to the darkest blood magic-to prevent her from wearing the crown. Despite her royal blood, Kelsea feels like nothing so much as an insecure girl, a child called upon to lead a people and a kingdom about which she knows almost nothing. But what she discovers in the capital will change everything, confronting her with horrors she never imagined. An act of singular daring will throw Kelsea’s kingdom into tumult, unleashing the vengeance of the tyrannical ruler of neighboring Mortmesne: the Red Queen, a sorceress possessed of the darkest magic. Now Kelsea will begin to discover whom among the servants, aristocracy, and her own guard she can trust. But the quest to save her kingdom and meet her destiny has only just begun-a wondrous journey of self-discovery and a trial by fire that will make her a legend . . . if she can survive.

Courtesy of HarperCollins Publishers – www.harpercollins.com

Our men are gearing up for the holidays, and each in their own style, have made travel plans to envy. One of them will be strolling around the streets of a coastal city in shorts and a t-shirt, while the other will be lounging by the sea in colourful trunks and boat shoes. One guy will be revealing his bold fashion sense while exploring the laid back yet vibrant nightlife of a party city; while the other, in a neighboring bar, will be competing for style attention in denim and chambray. Finally, our “fine things” traveler will hit the trendiest spots in Beirut, where he finally gets to pick out a different blazer for each night, while our positivity radiator will display his love for rainbows in a destination that manufactures bliss.

Wallet in black and navy blue grained calfskin.

Messenger in black and navy blue grained calfskin.

Portfolio in black and navy blue grained calfskin.

Long wallet in black and navy blue grained calfskin.

Long zip wallet in black and navy blue grained calfskin.

Coin holder in black and navy blue grained calfskin.

Long wallet in navy blue taurillon leather.

Long double-zip wallet in navy blue taurillon leather.

Eight-cc wallet in navy blue taurillon leather.

Card holder in navy blue taurillon leather.

Timepiece Chiffre Rouge A05, 41mm, steel moulded with black rubber case and bracelet, black dial, automatic chronograph movement, chronometer.

Long zip wallet in navy blue taurillon leather.

Briefcase in black and navy blue taurillon leather.

Messenger in black calfskin, palladium finish.

Long wallet in black grained calfskin, palladium finish.

Timepiece Chiffre Rouge A03, 36mm, steel case and bracelet, black dial, automatic movement.

Briefcase in black grained calfskin, red Dior Homme stamp.

Messenger in black calfskin, palladium finish.

Long wallet in black grained calfskin, palladium finish.

Timepiece Chiffre Rouge A03, 36mm, steel case and bracelet, black dial, automatic movement.

Briefcases in navy blue, indigo, greige, vert véronèse and black grained calfskin.

Derbies in black calfskin, black leather soles.

Eight-cc wallet in black grained calfskin, multicolor embroidery.

Long wallet in black grained calfskin, multicolor embroidery.

Briefcase in black grained calfskin, multicolor embroidery.

Sunglasses DiorComposit1.0 in black metal, dark grey ultra-flat lenses.

Backpack in black calfskin and navy blue pleated nylon.

Long wallet in black and red pleated calfskin.

Long wallet in black and fluorescent yellow pleated calfskin.

Briefcase in black calfskin and navy blue pleated nylon.

Pouch in black pleated calfskin

Backpack in navy blue grained calfskin, white Christian Dior embroidery.

Long wallet in navy blue calfskin, white Christian Dior debossed signature.

Briefcase in navy blue grained calfskin, white Christian Dior embroidery.

Derbies in black calfskin, black leather soles.

Tie in black silk, grey jacquard weave.

Belt in navy blue and black grained calfskin, plexiglass and palladium buckle.

Cufflinks in metal with palladium finish and black lacquer.

CREATIVE DIRECTION M/M (PARIS)

PHOTOGRAPHY ERWAN FROTIN

‘M/MODULES’ © M/M (PARIS), 2014

Supreme Oud is the latest fragrance launch. Tell us, what is so special about this perfume?

There are so many things that make it special. The world of Polo fragrances is as a whole, very special. It is a collection of different fragrances that are based upon and reflect the different facets and lifestyles of a man.

This new addition to the world of Polo’s wardrobe of fragrances also happens to be the first time that Ralph Lauren, an American brand, entered this area of Oud in a very unique way. The trend of bold and distinctive scents is very in right now. The uniqueness is in the quality of the scent as well. This new icon that we have introduced to the world of Polo is all about sophistication and elegance.

There is no doubt that this fragrance will appeal to this region. Tell us more about how will the other markets receive it?

People today are looking for something unique when it comes to fragrances. They are looking for fragrances that tell a story. Oud is becoming one of the key new ingredients within the world of fragrances. Outside the Middle East, people are looking for more robust and long-lasting fragrances too. As an American brand bringing an oud scent to the market, we really tried to do something special. We worked with a famous perfumer to try and bring something completely unique to the world of oud which is oversaturated in proposals. The perfume is very in sync with our brand. It’s a smoky oud that has a vibrant energy to it. It is also very comfortable to wear just as Ralph Lauren clothing is. Because of this, I think it could be accepted globally and become a success.

To what extent do you think it is important for fashion houses to play a role in the success of fragrances?

I think it is absolutely critical. If you look at the world of fragrances today, they key players are designer brands. Ralph Lauren has many things that make him unique.

“I am not a fashion designer, I am a movie director. My collections are about movies – I am telling a story. It’s all about lifestyle.” Ralph Lauren says. And that is exactly what fragrance is all about. We are telling stories with fragrances. We bring emotions with them, exactly like when watching a movie. The second important thing about the link between Ralph Lauren and fragrances is that there is no other designer that makes people dream. Ralph Lauren does not sell clothes – he sells dreams. Fragrance sells dreams as well. It allows you to be whoever you want to be.

How long did it take to develop the final scent?

Two years.

Has it been released globally?

It is going to be launched in the Middle East first followed by key cities around the world in March/April.

Who is the Supreme Oud Man and how would you describe him?

Well, it’s Nacho Figueras and he is sitting with us now. We always think of Nacho whenever we develop anything because he is the Man of the World of Polo. When we develop a fragrance for the world of polo, everything from its scent, advertising and merchandising has to include key value. These key values are and have always been “mysterious, magnetic and ultra-masculine.” The Supreme Oud man is exactly that. He wears a very memorable and noticeable scent that demands attention.

To what extent do you think the endorsement of a face for the brand or product is important?

It’s absolutely crucial. At Ralph Lauren, there is a criteria to follow when selecting the face of the brand. However, first and foremost, Mr. Lauren is the face of the brand. After all, he did invent this amazing world in 1967. He is the brand, the vision and the dream. He started from nothing and created one of the biggest empires in fashion. Authenticity is very important to Ralph Lauren which is why we decided not to hire a model but a real polo player. When we work with Nacho, we work with his entire family who are a part of the advertising, because it portrays a true story.

Nacho – how would you describe your relationship with the brand after so many years?

As a polo player, I grew up admiring the brand because of its polo player logo. I grew up wearing the Polo classic fragrance and loving it. I had a polo shirt that was given to me by my uncle and it was treasured and kept in my closet for special occasions. Twenty years later, I became this man that represented all those things that I admired. More importantly, I got to meet the man behind the brand – Mr. Lauren himself. He is a person that I admire and respect highly. Not just for what he has achieved as an entrepreneur but as a family man and a leader. I feel very blessed and honoured to be a part of all this – to be able to represent a brand that I grew up loving and working for a man I respect dearly.

NACHO FUGUERAS, THE FACE OF RALPH LAUREN

And what do you personally think of the Supreme Oud fragrance?

Nacho: I absolutely love it. I feel that it is a wonderful addition to the Polo wardrobe of fragrances.

What challenges do you expect to have with the launch of Supreme Oud?

There are many challenges we could face. When you launch a fragrance, nothing is predictable. It could either be a success or a failure. Working with Ralph Lauren for seven years now, I’ve realized that the brand has a very clear vision and an even clearer way of expressing this vision. It is so consistent with what you see in stores, on the TV, magazines and online. If we stay loyal to the brand and what it stands for and succeed in expressing it in a product – there is bound to be success. That is the reason behind our huge success with the Polo fragrances.

What’s the best performing fragrance for the world of Polo in the region?

Polo red.

Is there a specific age group that you are targeting with Supreme Oud?

I do not believe in splitting the fragrance market by age groups. On the contrary, this is very true when it comes to fashion. The intensity of this fragrance might appeal to an older audience however, things have been changing very fast and people desire more intense fragrances these days. I definitely see a person wearing this fragrance to a special occasion. What’s so great about the world of Polo is that you can play with the colours and scents and define your personality and mood.

What’s in the pipeline for the Polo world following Supreme Oud?

We are always working on ideas. That is the magic of fragrances. We definitely want the world of Polo to grow therefore we will be following the trends very closely. The launch of Supreme Oud will help us raise the bar of luxury and add further elegance and sophistication to the line. We are still developing and maintaining huge investments behind Polo Blue and Polo Red. In terms of development, we need to reach the same level of strength we have for men’s fragrances in women’s. We are definitely working on achieving that, as well.

Nacho, what are your tips for the gentleman that desires to be dapper and what is the best way to carry yourself in style?

When it comes to style, know that it has a lot to do with your personality. So, the most important thing is to feel very comfortable about yourself. Do and wear what is in your DNA and what makes you happy. The world of Polo fragrances is so great because it truly complements what I believe my style is all about.

Guillaume: I would like to add that I believe elegance is not always about how you dress. It is in the way you behave with your family, your colleagues, your friends, the poor and the rich. Behaving in an elegant way is what makes you very stylish.

Interviewed by Lara Mansour Sawaya

Why did you decide to start your own line?

I had been asked for a number of years but just hadn’t found the right partner that wanted to do what I wanted to do. There were many talented and successful people in the footwear industry that had asked me to launch a shoe line/collection, but more of a mass shoe line. That meant, it wouldn’t be the quality that I expected of myself and what people expected from me. I didn’t feel that I could ask for people’s hard earned money if they weren’t shoes I was really proud of. I wanted to make shoes in Italy – the way they used to be made. I wanted them to be at a price point that was affordable to some, if not everybody. And, I wanted to really re-visit and sort of re-dedicate myself to this single sole which had gone out of fashion and colour as a neutral. Then, I had the courage to call George Malkemus and ask him if he would consider partnering with me. When we met, we realized that we wanted the exact same thing. Finally! I could do it the way I wanted to. I really felt honour-bound to live by those ideas and standards.

There are lots of different colours and shapes in the collection. What was the inspiration behind the collection?

In Dubai, we have an opportunity to do what we do not get to do in the States. Luckily, we met a distributor here who is really aware of what consumers want. It was thrilling to hear that she wanted more colour because it is what I have always wanted. The retailer in the States wouldn’t agree because it’s just not as typical, since the weather does not allow it and it’s not part of our culture as much. The Dubai customer also loves satin. In the States, a satin shoe is kept aside for a special occasion but here – you can wear it every day. I am really living out the collection I’ve been wanting so much over here.

You know, during the signing session at Harvey Nichols, Mall of the Emirates – I signed 80 percent coloured shoes and 20 percent black! It was really exciting. Here, we have colours, ornamentation and fabrication choices that we’d never have in the States. It’s a privilege and been very good for us as our first launch outside the U.S. Territory, with the exception of Canada. The bar has been set very high now for other foreign territories which is great.

Do you plan to expand with different product lines apart from shoes?

Well, we have bags now. Bags are hugely successful in the States. We have bags both in Harvey Nichols and Bloomingdales. And yes, we will, but we have to be thoughtful, careful and prudent and not work too quickly. We need to think about how to make a difference and bring to the market what others have not. We do not want to arbitrarily grow because then mistakes are bound to happen. We have every intention to grow but we have to be smart.

Do you have a favourite from the collection?

I never pick a favourite. I love all of them. I always love a pink shoe and sometimes I just love the black. We did the black bobby here and it’s so beautiful.

You are so well known as Carrie from SATC. If you want to tell people who Sarah Jessica Parker is, what would you say?

I don’t know that I could describe myself. Let’s see…I am a complicated person, thoughtful, shy, sensitive and empathetic. I am a reader. I like to stay in a lot, cook and clean. I am a mother, a wife and a friend.

What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy and love reading, the theatre and ballet.

How do you define your style?

I don’t think a lot about that. I am a working mother and some days that is all I am. I could be dressed for days or end in simple, practical ways and then get all dressed up for work or an event. So, I couldn’t really describe myself and style. I am a lot of different things, just like many women. I think we are appropriate on occasions, in appropriate purposely on occasions. We are lazy and sloppy sometimes and choose comfort over anything else. Sometimes, we just decide to be practical and I think it’s actually what your life dictates in some ways. That’s more the truth!

After movies and after launching your own shoe line – what’s next for you?

More movies and more shoes. I will also continue my work with the New York City Ballet and philanthropic efforts.

Are you into arts?

Yes, of course. I work in Arts a huge amount. It’s a big part of my life. I am on the Presidential Committee of Arts & Humanities so we work a lot on bringing art into schools. I go to museums all the time and live in a city that is consumed by arts and culture.

What are the three things every woman should have in 2015?

I really don’t know. What I want and need would be different from other women. I would say…a bra, underwear and a tooth brush?

What are three things you would never wear?

I probably wouldn’t wear a tube top anymore. I can’t really think of anything else because as an actor, I am so accustomed to wearing anything and everything.

Can we expect a third part to SATC?

Not that I know of.

Are you working on any projects now?

There’s a bunch. There’s one in Italy and I am going to do two or three more projects in 2015.

Where do you and your family like to spend your holidays?

I just like to spend it with them, wherever that may be. We don’t really have a specific place.

Interviewed by Lara Mansour Sawaya

The “Best of Fathers” Project

The luxury watchmaker we’ve all come to love for not only its excellence in the industry but for its passionate and active involvement in community initiatives that foster creativity and awareness for all things humane, has added another admirable project to its list. This time it sought to highlight one of the most special days of the year, one that honours the men who are responsible to teach little human beings everything they need to know about life. Culture, morals, tradition, knowledge, love, strength, confidence, acceptance, tolerance and empathy, are all lessons that would be used as weapons in good times and in bad. They will be passed on from one generation to the other, and he will always be praised and remembered as a role model, teacher and the “first man in our life.”

In light of father’s day, IWC is celebrating the best of fathers in the UAE, offering each family a very unique, intimate and memorable moment that can be cherished forever. The aim was to discover what makes each father special through the eyes of their children, which introduced us to a joyful array of personalities and characters. Each video portrayed the uniqueness of each child. We want to thank IWC for making a&e’s own family a part of this special dedication, making them an IWC family now, along with the rest of the chosen fathers and children.

Follow the project on Social Media:

www.facebook.com/IWCWatches

www.instagram.com/iwcwatchesarabia/

#bestoffathers

Watch the videos on the official

IWC Youtube page:

www.youtube.com/user/iwcwatches

Tropical Miami

Rosemary Sunglasses

Zippy wallet Monogram V

Lock it Monogram bracelet

Monogram shawl in Turquoise

Amber Cherry Sunglasses

Keep it Twice bracelet

Neverfull in Monogram V

Alma in Epi Turquoise

Lock it bracelet

Alma in Epi Grenade

Destination wedge sandals

Spirit bracelet in Coral

Alma BB in Monogram Vernis Turquoise

Monogram Turquoise towel

Speedy in Monogram Ramages

“Ramages dot” stole

Bracelet spirit in Coral

Photographer : Pelle Lannesfors

Stylist : Sally Matthews

Hair : Pawel at MMG

Make-up : Kate Goodwin at Illumin8 Makeup Studio

Model : Dominika at MMG Models

Location : Manzil Downtown Dubai

Bird Box – A Novel By Josh Malerman

Something is out there . . . Something terrifying that must not be seen. One glimpse and a person is driven to deadly violence. No one knows what it is or where it came from. Five years after it began, a handful of scattered survivors remain, including Malorie and her two young children. Living in an abandoned house near the river, Malorie has long dreamed of fleeing to a place where her family might be safe. But the journey ahead will be terrifying: twenty miles downriver in a rowboat-blindfolded-with nothing to rely on but Malorie’s wits and the children’s trained ears. One wrong choice and they will die. And something is following them. But is it man, animal, or monster? Engulfed in darkness, surrounded by sounds both familiar and frightening, Malorie embarks on a harrowing odyssey-a trip that takes her into an unseen world and back into the past, to the companions who once saved her. Under the guidance of the stalwart Tom, a motley group of strangers banded together against the unseen terror, creating order from the chaos. But when supplies ran low, they were forced to venture outside-and confront the ultimate question: in a world gone mad, who can really be trusted? Interweaving past and present, Josh Malerman’s breathtaking debut is a horrific and gripping snapshot of a world unraveled that will have you racing to the final page.

Courtesy of HarperCollins Publishers – www.harpercollins.com

What is so special about Swiss-made watches? How important is it?

To be honest, a lot of brands today claim their product is 100% manufactured in Switzerland. That is not always true. Some brands make their components in the Far East and are compiled in Switzerland. The difference between these brands and Parmigiani is that we are 100% made in Switzerland. This means that every component of the watch is Swiss made, which is a big seal of quality. Parmigiani is a small independent brand – we are not part of big watch groups such as Swatch or Richemont. Every component is made in-house and we manufacture everything from A-Z. We know exactly what we are doing and it is a seal of guarantee for the customer. If a Parmigiani watch is bought, the customer should be aware that everything is real and of Swiss-made quality.

What sets you apart as a brand?

We want to be different. If you buy a Parmigiani, you are not going to have the same watch as everybody else. If you buy a Rolex, which is a really good watch, you should know that tens of thousands of people will have the same Rolex. We only make 6,000 pieces and hoping for 10,000 but that’s it. So, from the moment you buy a Parmigiani, you are buying something different. We are not about marketing and pushing sales – we are about enabling people to live and experience something special.

What’s the price point chart for the Parmigiani watches?

Previously, on average, it was around 25,000 Swiss Francs. However, last year, we launched a collection that is more affordable so currently, it is around 20,000 Swiss Francs.

Tell us more about the iconic Kalpa collection for men and women.

When we launched the brand almost 20 years ago, we decided to make not a special watch because we wanted to make sure that when our customers would wear Parmigiani, they would be asked by everybody what it was. We continued on in the same way for 10 or 12 years and we earned the market however the retailers wanted something more contemporary, something that could be easily sold to people who do not have much knowledge on watches. So we decided to make something more common. Then, we decided to launch another watch that is easier to wear and easier to sell – the Tonda. Now, we are working on the Tonda range a lot because we realized that we could make some complications out of it and it is a very interesting watch. Both the Kalpa and Tonda lines are two iconic and successful collections for Parmigiani.

TONDA 1950 SQUELETTE

KALPA COLLECTION

SIHH is coming very soon. I know it’s too early to talk or say anything about the novelties but what can we expect?

I will give you a few hints. We will continue with the Tonda line because there are a lot of things we can develop. We are working on a new skeleton to show people our high quality movements. There will be new Tonda skeletons for both men and women; ultra thin watches that are going to be aesthetically of high quality. A really big part of the watch will be on the aesthetics part of the movement. That’s one of the things you can expect to see at SIHH.

How do you assess the brand’s performance in the Middle East?

It’’s a big challenge for us to penetrate the market because people here like very established brands.

Our strategy here is to show that we are different; hence we will approach the market with our partner, Damas hosting one-to-one meetings and special events. We do not want to be huge on advertising campaigns or billboards – just a few big stones that we can work around.

We are noticing nowadays a huge drive for women to look for the male size watches. What is the brand doing to cater to this type of potential clients?

If you look at the Metro collection, we did something special this year. We launched an affordable and mechanical ladies watch. It is a 100% Swiss made movement and it has all the same qualities of a men’s watch.

Nowadays, women do not care about the “bling bling” factor of a watch. They are looking for real watches.

At SIHH, you will see the ultra-thin mechanical watch that totally fits in with the trend.

Three things our readers don’t know about Parmigiani?

I could tell you ten but I will stick to three.

1. We are 100% Swiss made.

2. We are an independent company. Our owner is private and creates watches because of his passion for the art of watch-making – not for money.

3. We are different. If you want to look and be different, then you must invest in a Parmigiani watch.

Interviewed by Lara Mansour Sawaya

The time designer

“La D De Dior” Watch by Dior Timepieces

“Dior VIII Grand Bal” Watch by Dior Timepieces

“Dior VIII Grand Bal” Watch by Dior Timepieces

“Dior VIII Grand Bal” Watch by Dior Timepieces

“La D De Dior” Watch by Dior Timepieces

“Dior VIII Grand Bal” Watch by Dior Timepieces

Photographer : Tina Patni

Stylist : Kawa H Pour

Hair & Make-Up : Marisol Steward

Model : Mariana I

Dust yourself off, Prepare for battle.

Raise your voice,

Louder and louder.

No one was ever remembered

For looking simple…

All clothes & accessories by Ralph Lauren

Photographer : Waldemar Hansson

Stylist : Kawa H Pour

Hair & Make-Up : Marisol Steward

Model : Mariana Idzkowska

Location : Banyan Tree Resort, Ras Al-Khaimah

This is not a love story, It is a conversation, A passionate talk. Between the soul

The eyes and the shadows.

All clothes available at Harvey Nichols

Photographer : Sebastian Sabal-Bruce

Model : Antonina Vasylchenko

Hair : Nicholas James

Make-Up : Michiko Ikeda

Clothes : Dolce & Gabbana

Sweater 

Sunglasses

All by Dior

Long Coat

Quilted Shorts

Top

Shoes

“Diorama” Bag

Belt

Tribal Earrings

All by Dior

Bomber Jacket

All by Dior

Printed Jumpsuit

Belt

Shoes

All by Dior

Top and pants

Belt

All by Dior

Dress

“Diorama” Bag

Belt

Boots

All by Dior

Embroidered Sweater 

Sunglasses

All by Dior

Dress

Knitted Top

Belt

All by Dior

Photographer : Tinko Czetwertynski

Stylist : Amine Jreissati

Hair & Make-Up : Marisol Steward

Model : Anna Maria

Location : Atelier M – Pier 7, Dubai Marina

This spring is all about romantic lace, daring sequined pieces, utilitarian chic and revamped denim created for urban beauties.

Romantic couture dress

LV&Chips earrings

LV Chain earring

LV Ear cuff

“Swinging” boots in Denim

GO 14 Stripes bag

Romantic couture dress

LV&Chips earrings

LV Chain earring

LV Ear cuff

Sequined top

LV&Chips earrings

LV Chain earring

LV Ear cuff

Dora Soft bag in Monogram Rouge

Sequined dress

Spider lace leggings

“Instinct” Eel boots

Dora bag in Monogram

Gabardine jacket

Couture knit

Overstitched Denim pants

LV&Chips earrings

LV Chain earring

LV Ear cuff

Petite Malle in Epi Denim

Gabardine jacket embellished with feathers

Shirt

Bermudas

LV&Chips earrings

Hand jewel

Shirt

Hand jewel

• All the products are from the SS15 Show Collection

Photographer : Vivienne Balla @ Capital D

Stylist : Sally Matthews

Hair & Make-Up : Kate Goodwin

Model : Paulina @ MMG Eventz

A space for conception

A space for creation,

Imagination and distinction.

A space among spaces.

Dior Haute Couture

Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture

Valentino Haute Couture

Armani Privé

Stéphane Rolland Haute Couture

Atelier Versace

Valentino Haute Couture

Elie Saab Haute Couture

Armani Privé

Armani Privé

Zuhair Murad

Stylist : Amine Jreissati

Photographer : Jeremy Zaessinger

Hair stylist : Grigoris @ Callisté

Makeup artist : Tomoko Ohama @ Callisté

Model : Zoé Colivas @ Elite Paris

And it was all Yellow

For this look, we took yellow as a base colour because it certainly isn’t an easy colour to style. Mustard and neon are variations we delved into, beige, black and orange are additions to the palette. We particularly love the socks by Etro with the playful culinary elements and Prada’s industrial shades.

Putting it together

It’s all about purple in this outfit and the stylish combination it makes with teal and camel in Ermenegildo Zegna runway look. A striped woven belt like the one from Armani Exchange, Louis Vuitton’s monogram scarf , Etro’s bag and the playful cut out shoes from Paul Smith were matched with accessories in different tones of brown like the Mulberry wallet and the Ferragamo chain bracelet.

Flying business

Following in the footsteps of MR PORTER, we were inspired to create a page for the flying business man. The sophisticated entrepreneur who knows how to take the office look and make it an all-day one. This gentleman is always suited up, even when going on business trips. He also always has the right accessories to match, from Piaget and Tateossian cufflinks, to an S.T. Dupont wallet. This time we let director Matthew Vaughn take the lead with his feature film, Kingsman: The Secret Service. The entire bespoke 60-piece Kingsman menswear collection which is featured throughout the film, is a collaboration between Mr. Vaughn, award winning costume designer Arianne Phillips and MR PORTER. The iconic pieces inspired by Savile Row tradition, which are available on the fashion website, were made by the best in British production including: Bremont timepieces; Cutler and Gross eyewear; Drake’s ties and pocket squares; Corgi knitwear, Turnbull & Asser shirting, George Cleverley footwear and others.

Zoom-in on the runway

Pink is my favourite colour

It is one of the most daring colours for a man to try styling, and many of them stay far far away from that fresh, flowery tone that is associated with the opposite sex. But when styled right, we believe no colour is off limits. Versace did it well by mixing browns into the outfit, and we would go for either a dark purple bag from Paul Smith or the brown shopping bag from Loewe. Adding a nice belt to accentuate the ensemble, is essential and we chose to go with one from Louis Vuitton or Salvatore Ferragamo.

Dior VIII Montaigne Watches by Dior Timepieces

Dior VIII Grand Plisse Soleil Watch by Dior Timepieces

Dior VIII Montaigne Watches by Dior Timepieces

Dior VIII Grand Plisse Soleil Watches by Dior Timepieces

Dior VII Grand Bal Watch by Dior Timepieces

Dior VIII Montaigne Watches by Dior Timepieces

Photographer : Tina Patni

Art Direction : Stuart Robertson

Young Hollywood is a beautiful body of work by portrait photographer Claiborne Swanson Frank, which comes on the heels of her first book with Assouline, American Beauty, published in 2012. Swanson Frank photographed over 60 up-and-coming women to watch in Hollywood today, drawing inspiration from old Hollywood. Among these women are actresses, directors, producers, screenwriters, stylists, and more-from Isabel Lucas and Elisabeth Moss, to Dakota Johnson and Imogen Poots, to Mickey Sumner and Amber Heard. Brimming with gorgeous portraits, alongside short texts, transcribed by Genevieve Bahrenberg, in the voices of the women themselves, a foreword by Michael Kors, an introduction by Amy Seimetz, and a Q&A between Lesley M. M. Blume and Swanson Frank discussing the making of the book, Young Hollywood captures the essence and the allure of what it means and what it takes to be a starlet in modern day Hollywood.

Michael Kors first worked with Swanson Frank in the fall of 2012, originating the concept of Kors Collaborator, an on-going digital initiative that profiles women with creative talents across the cultural spectrum.

This successful collaboration led to him supporting Claiborne in the creation of her second book,Young Hollywood.

Italian cuisine from a German perspective.

BiCE Mare, Souk Al Bahar’s award-winning Italian restaurant, recently invited two-Michelin Star Chef Oliver Glowig, to curate a special menu which he came to oversee during a 3 day interactive event.

It is this element of Italian culture that distinguishes it from others, an eagerness to treat food as an art form and cultivate a sort of curiosity in the patron’s mind. Whether the aim is to highlight the components of a dish and their background, or the innovative ways in which different ingredients and textures were mixed together, at BiCe Mare they’ve successfully created this environment by regularly hosting such events.

Back in 1926, Beatrice Ruggeri, also known to her family and friends in Milan as BICE, founded the BICE group based on her hospitable spirit and love for delectable Tuscany inspired cuisine. The Seafood concept BiCe Mare has been located in the prestigious Souk Al Bahar since 2009 and with direct views to the Burj Khalifa and fountain show, and a full Italian team, it has won many loyal patrons over the years. During my visit I also noticed the simplicity of its interiors, which is a characteristic of Italian restaurants. It particularly transported me to a jazz inspired restaurant I visited near the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, right by the river. Even though it boasts a romantic terrace outside above The Dubai Fountain, I found that it was greatly inviting for family dinners filled with conversations and laughter.  Amidst the 8 course meal created by two Michelin star chef, Oliver Glowig, were certain tastes and personal touches that caught the attention of my taste buds.

The evening succulently commenced with eggplant parmigiana served in Oliver’s unique style with smoked provola and tomato, then came a unique risotto made with carnaroli rice and four year aged parmigiano regiano and white alba truffle. The center of this risotto “hill”, as I called it, was egg yolk that came pouring out like lava. Its special dominating taste came from the fact that it originated from a goat milk fed chicken. I was interesting in entering the world of German chef Oliver Glowig, who left for Italy in 2001 and began heading L’Olivo restaurant located in the Capri Palace Hotel and Spa.

After nine years in Capri, Oliver then wanted to venture into something of his own and opened his well-known eponymous restaurant in Aldrovandi Villa Borghese in early 2011. Only eight months after its opening, the restaurant received two-Michelin stars in November 2011. Oliver is one of the only few chefs in the world who has managed to go directly from zero to two-Michelin stars, emphasizing on the level of excellence in terms of food and quality that is served under his leadership.

Ristorante Oliver Glowig

a&e caught up with the chef for a brief Q&A on the menu he prepared specially for Dubai and his attachment to Italian cuisine.

First of all, tell us about your experience creating this special menu for Dubai diners?

I have created the special menu for BiCE Mare based on the products available in Dubai, however I of course have included my signature dishes like raw scampi with burrata cheese and artichoke and the ravioli capresi. I noticed that in Dubai is a great availability of fresh Italian products and thus I wanted to bring true Italian cuisine to Dubai. My kitchen in Rome is not very complicated and a lot of people like it. I cook for many tourists from all over the world. Customers love the sincerity of my dishes and I do hope the people of Dubai will love my cooking as well.

Tell us about your German background, and how you came about to appreciate Italian food and take it on as a career! 

The first time I went to Italy to study cooking I believe I found the best quality products in the world. I immediately fell in love with two things – first, Italian produce and its cooking style, and the second being my current wife who is originally from Capri. I have now been in Italy since the past 17 years. I believe it is my German rigor and the beauty of Italian produce that has made me who I am today.

What do you think about the positioning of Italian cuisine in Dubai’s culinary scene?

There are some great Italian restaurants in Dubai such as BiCE Mare and Alta Badia with some great chefs such as Alfonso Iaccarino, Claudio Melis, Francesco Guarracino. In BiCE Mare, the kitchen consists of only Italian chefs, which is what differentiates it from the various other restaurants in Dubai. I do not like Italian Restaurants where the chef has just come from another country and joined the kitchen, without much prior knowledge of true Italian products and the basics of Italian cuisine. Other nationality chefs may be more economical to hire maybe but they cannot do the same job as a true Italian chef.

What are some elements that distinguish Italian fine dining from others in your opinion?

The simple yet rich flavours of Italian cusine distinguish it from all other cuisines.

Scampi crudi, cuore di carciofo e burrata

Risotto alla camomilla con astice e polvere di capperi

Tuffoli e Genovese di pollo ruspante

What are some of your personality traits that helped you achieve 2 Michelin stars? 

I believe my success is attributed to three key factors – a) I have diligently studied traditional Italian cuisine, getting my basics perfect. b) I have tried various Italian restaurants around the world, thus always knowing what the competition is offering and how I can be different. c) I have trained under some great chefs such as Gualtiero Marchesi.

What distinguishes a Michelin Star chef, from someone who doesn’t have that honour?

Once you have received a Michelin Star, there is a lot of responsibility on your plate. Our customers only expect perfection and there is no room for error. This is not only in what comes out of the kitchen, but even the ambience and the service has to be impeccable. Every little thing is noticed.

What kind of kitchen secrets do chefs usually keep? What are some of your best kept secrets?

There are no secrets. For me it is always about the quality of the ingredients. They have to be only the best quality, and it is the ingredients that eventually define the results of a kitchen.

I also believe in keeping things simple. At most times I use only three ingredients, at max four.

It is very important for me that the customer understands what they are eating.

How do you add an “Oliver touch” to your dishes?

The Oliver touch would be my passion for cooking. If my customers truly saw how passionate I am about my cooking, they will automatically realize the effort gone into preparing it. My cuisine is always cheerful with plain colours and a lot of flavor.

What would you say is your trademark?

Consistency. I aim to be perfect at all times.

We are profiling successful and inspiring men from different industries for our January issue, and wanted to know how you describe success in the culinary world? 

In the beginning it is all about training and learning the trade working with great chefs. Even exploring different cultures and styles of cooking can influence your final dish. One must never stop learning. Finally, I believe success is not just measured by Michelin stars and other accolades, but by ensuring that diners always leave your restaurant with a smile. Awards are important, but it’s the customer’s happiness that truly makes a chef happy.

Sharper than a ray of light
Dockside blues and seaside dreams…

Duffel Coat
Jeans
Shirt
Loafers

Navy Jacket
Shirt
Printed Tie
Backpack

Pinstripe Wool Jacket and Pants
Shirt
Belt
Knit Sweater
Derby Shoes

Classic Blazer
Knit Sweater
White Jeans
Shirt
Loafers

Knit Sweater
Shirt
Belt
White Jeans

Navy Jacket and Pants
Derby Shoes
Briefcase
Belt

Peacoat
Sweater
Shirt
Pants
Belt

Photographer : Waldemar Hansson
Stylist : Kawa H Pour
Assistant stylist : Linnéa Eriksson
Hair and Makeup : Marisol Steward
Model : Paul @ MMG Eventz
Location : Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club

Edouard Mauvais-Jarvis joined the Dior team in 2007 as a Scientific Communication Director for the Skincare and Make Up products, making him both the Scientific Director and the International Scientific and technical Spokesperson for the Dior House worldwide.

He also holds the position of Environmental Director, thus covering all the aspects related to the scientific and environmental image of Parfums Christian Dior.

During the launch of Dior’s new Capture Totale Serum and Nude Air range, a&e had the chance to meet with Edouard to discuss the two new launches and what makes them so special including their scientific properties and Dior’s savoir faire.

“Capture Totale is an essential anti ageing range, dedicated to be an emblem of Dior Skincare’s image of femininity.  It relies on three key pillars that are the same for all our skincare, except that it is really well presented by this range.” – Edouard Mauvais-Jarvis

What are the three key pillars of Dior Skincare?

The first key pillar is Dior Science. In the case of Capture Totale – it has been created based on the 15 years of expertise we have on stem cells which creates a new approach to skin ageing. It is really interesting.

The second key pillar is Dior Gardens. It is our way of making skincare ingredients that are both natural and proprietary since we are developing and harvesting our own gardens with a variety of flowers in order to study and transform into cosmetic ingredients.

The third is Dior’s unique know-how and savoir faire in terms of formulation, allowing us to create formulas that are efficient in the long term as well as immediately. These formulas favour the penetration of active ingredients that provide the skin with the ultimate sensorial benefits. This all makes Dior Skincare.

What was the inspiration behind the new Capture Totale?

A while ago, the Nobel Prize was awarded to a team working on Neurosciences. Neurosciences are a very important discipline in medicine that focuses on how our brain interprets signals from the environment and create notions out of them. The idea behind how we create notions of beauty, age and skin perfection gave birth to the Dreamskin products last year.  For Capture Totale, we collaborated with a Neuroscientist, Arnaud Aubert and studied 78 subjects who were observers, asked to look at the faces of different women of different ages.

Tell us more the studies and ageing.

In collaboration with Arnaud Aubert to study the brain’s spontaneous reactions to a new face, it was realized that its initial judgement is purely instinctive and emotional. In a matter of milliseconds, the brain focuses not on the face’s signs of age, but on the positive or negative emotions it transmits. This collaboration has also revealed that the face does not merely accumulate signs of ageing over time: year after year it appears sadder, harsher and more anxious as well. The brain instantly and subconsciously deciphers these negative emotions which ultimately alter our image by ageing us in the eyes of others. On the whole, plumped, naturally curvy faces convey more positive emotions.

When we talk about smoothing wrinkles and improving firmness and luminosity, we are really talking about improving the elastic pulp present in the skin that tends to wear out over time. This elastic pulp from a biological standpoint is created to an optimal production of the skin matter whether it is a production of cells in the epidermis, the production of extra cellular content in the dermis in terms of quantity and consistency. The right quantity and consistency is responsible for perfect skin synchronization of the whole process in all the cells, especially the stem cells which are the drivers and coordinators of all these actions in the skin. You can compare stem cells to the conductors in an orchestra because in a way, they are giving the orders to all the cell populations to either produce more cells in the epidermis or more matter in the dermis. But even the best conductor can only do his job well if he gets feedback by hearing the orchestra. If he was deaf, he would not be able to conduct anything.  Stem cells have a system called notch connectors which can be compared to the ears of the conductor! They are proteins that are on the surface of stem cells. When all these connectors are present and active, the skin is able to produce perfectly consistent matter. But with time, the notch signalling system tends to slow down and because some of the notch connectors are disappearing with time and age, the ability to be perfectly synchronized and produce perfectly plump matter in the skin disappears too. Do not despair though, there is a solution!

The new Capture Totale Serum? Tell us more about the ingredients and benefits.

Since the beginning in 2006, the core active ingredient in Capture Totale has always been the Longoza flower that originates from a garden in Madagascar. From the flower, we developed the Longoza extract which we have complemented with other ingredients to create what we call the Longoza complex which is the heart of Capture Totale. Now, we have developed new performances on this complex and added new ingredients including an extract from peppermint that allows further action. We have also over-concentrated the active ingredient in this new serum to further improve efficiency, especially on the notch receptors and connectors. We are now able to directly act on the cell synchronization and reactivate it by 60 percent. The new formula penetrates 60 percent faster and 80 percent deeper which in turn allows us to convey 60 percent more active ingredients in the skin. It also enhances the sensorial performance of the product, making it ultra light and fast penetrating with a very fine texture that is extremely efficient with its intensive re-plumping effect.

How long before we see results?

You will notice long-term results between 3 and 4 weeks. However, we have worked really hard on the instant result. We really believe in having immediate results in order to convince the user that the product is indeed efficient.

The new serum sounds amazing. What else can you tell us about it?

It will be available in a new refillable jar that we have developed. It is part of our global environmental policy at Dior to have refillable jars.

What do you think differentiates Capture Totale from the other products available on the market?

The main difference lies in our approach. We have tried to build our expertise in three main aspects during the past years. We have the perfect knowledge of skin energy and understand exactly how the biological structure; the architecture of the skin is built. On top of that, is our huge expertise on the skin optical properties for understanding how this biological architecture translates into how the skin builds its own image. Another difference is our focus on giving consumers immediate results because we truly believe it’s the only way to obtain long-term results. Regular use of a product is the only way to achieve long-term results therefore the consumer needs to be pleased with what she/he sees from the get go.

Tell us about the new Nude Air Foundation?

Nude Air is our extension to Diorskin Nude whose role is to provide the skin with a very healthy bare skin look. The serum foundation formula brings with it a lot of skincare benefits due to a highly oxygenated oil that acts as a breathing interface between the skin and the outside, allowing the product to be very healthy for the skin.  When you wear it, you don’t feel like you’ve applied a bit of makeup because it is so light and breathable. It has been enriched with cranberry oil for anti-oxidant benefits. Nude Air provides you with a perfectly unified complexion.

Are there any other products to complement Nude Air?

Yes! It is completed with a compact powder and a loose powder, available in the standard shades. Both these powders share something special; the ability to protect the skin against pollution which is very beneficial these days. To complete the range, we also have bronzing powders. These products are the perfect complements to Nude Air because each and every one is extremely light and adjust perfectly with the shade of the individual’s complexion.

Dior Skincare and Men. What products would you recommend to a&e male readers?

There are a couple of products that men can borrow from their girlfriends’ “toolbox”, if you will. One Essential is a very good example. It is a wonderful product that can be used by both men and women. I have been using it since its launch in 2010 and I am amazed by its immediate benefits. It’s also great for fighting the effects of jet-lag on the skin. What I believe is the most impressive about this product is that by using it on a regular basis, all your little skincare woes such as blackheads and breakouts disappear. It stabilizes your skin in the long run, so it becomes purer.

Another product that men can use is Dreamskin. This product offers a unifying effect without seeming like makeup. It dries really fast and brings about radiance. The final results are really amazing. I’d like to add that One Essential can be used no matter what the gender and/or age. It focuses on detoxifying the skin so it is a basic, global, everyday product.

Keeping in mind the climate in the Middle East, what products would you recommend to people here?

I would recommend One Essential as a first step because the product is so universal in its benefits. It’s also extremely light as I have mentioned. It’s a huge success in Asia. It’s very good for oily skin as it helps to stabilize it.

I also recommend that you have a good cleaning regimen for the skin because the climate is very harsh in the region. Not only that but the pollution and dust from construction, etc are very high.

Products aside – what are your top tips for flawless skin?

Drink a lot of water, protect your skin from the sun and sleep enough.

A Middle Eastern Wedding 

In hot weather looser clothing is more appropriate and more comfortable, but should still fit, and the silhouette should be up to date. Think lean and neat, but not necessarily tight.  Try a soft shouldered or unlined jacket in a light, breathable fabric.

Brighten up neutral tailoring with a bold shirt and stand-out accessories. A Middle Eastern wedding is an opportunity to indulge your inner dandy, so don’t be afraid to dress up your ensemble with a colourful or patterned pocket square and a fine luxury watch.

Slip-on loafers are an iconic summer footwear option, and there’s no denying the classic elegance of a polished leather pair. Beat the heat by looking for a loafer constructed with woven panels; these will allow air to circulate while also adding an interesting textural element.

A Mediterranean Wedding 

Regardless of the temperature, residents of the French and Italian rivieras remain consistently well dressed, and are always happy to put on a jacket and tie for a special occasion. A Mediterranean wedding demands a refined aesthetic; stick to classic seaside hues such as blue and white, and classic Italian construction.

Linen is a staple fabrication for the Mediterranean climate. Whether in the form of a double-breasted stone linen blazer by insider Italian brand Slowear Montedoro, or pastel linen shirt, let linen’s artful creasing and crisp textural properties bring your outfit to life.

A meticulously crafted woven-straw fedora exemplifies Mediterranean elegance.  Look for a hat with subtle detail, like a dapper striped grosgrain band, and the right style will bring distinction and poise to your wedding attire.

A Tropical Wedding

A trip to the tropics is, sartorially speaking, the perfect time to take a trip to the hothouse. On trend and seasonally appropriate, botanical prints of lush flowers and foliage are an ideal way to liven-up your wedding wardrobe. AMI, Beams Plus and Hentsch Man have all offered up tropical print shirting this season, which will look great against a neutral blazer.

Admittedly, shades are often the first thing to disappear after a wedding cocktail or two, but when it comes to protecting your eyes from that tropical midday glare, there should be no corner-cutting on style and quality. Illesteva’s popular ‘Leonard’ round-frame sunglasses have been updated with cool mirrored blue lenses this season for a head-turning finish.

Shorts don’t have to be scruffy. Depending on how smart the dress code is, try a pair of elegant slim fit cotton twill tailored shorts with a pressed crease, or a short suit with matching jacket.

The mod chic homme in denim, khakis, and polka dot covered shoes, pays tribute to Monsieur Dior’s “Lily of the Valley” flower.

Gold Textured Wool Overcoat

Denim Pin Collar Shirt, Jeans, Sneakers with Dots, “Star” Brooch, “Heart” Brooch, “Monsieur Dior” Brooch.

Embroidered Pin Collar Shirt, Jeans, Derby with Dots.

Wool and Cashmere Coat, “Muguet” Brooch, Black Shirt, Jeans, Multi-buckle Monk Shoe, Black Belt.

Pinstripe Pin Collar Shirt, Merino Lamb Aviator Jacket, Jeans, “Muguet” Brooch, Buckled and Laced Derby.

Shirt with Stripes, Fine Stripe Wool Pants.

Wool Sweater, Jeans.

Pin Collar Shirt, Indigo Sweater, Wool Pants with Side Pockets, Black Belt, Sneakers with Dots.

Khaki Shirt with Tricolor Piping, Khaki Wool Pants, Flower Print Silk Tie, Buckled and Laced Derby.

Photography :  Jeremy Zaessinger

Styling :  Amine Jreissaty

Fashion & Accessories by Dior Homme Winter 2014/2015

Within the Berluti family, a taste for beautiful things and the “savoir faire” associated with their craft have been transmitted from generation to generation. This sense of heritage has become one of the cornerstones of the House of Berluti. A similar sense of tradition and grace is passed on from father to son. Style and elegance are traits often passed down from a father to his son, and Berluti handpicked some of the UAE’s most prolific gentlemen to exhibit this notion. Photographer John Pocock presents portraits of fathers in the company of their sons, looking the epitome of elegance in Berluti’s collections from head to toe. Artistic Director Alessandro Sartori personally selected the looks for each of the gentlemen to his ultimate vision of the Berluti man, adapted to the gentlemen of the UAE.

FATHER:

Salem Bin Dasmal, Founder Silverspoon Investments

Coat : Leather coat moka melange

Jacket : Corduroy Suede Front Cardigan in navy Cotton Cashmere

Trouser : 5 pocket denim pants Indigo

Shoes : Lorenzo Derbies, Lecco Last in Kangaroo Leather in Testa di Moro color

SON ( LEFT ):

Kian Dasmal

Look by Fendi

Berluti Testa Di Moro scarf

SON ( RIGHT ):

Amir Dasmal

Look by Fendi

Berluti Tubular scarf grapes

FATHER:

Dr. Maurizio Viel, Cosmetic Surgeon

Jacket : Calf Suede Leather Blazer in Caffe

Knitwear : Herringbone Stitch Roll Neck in Gesso color

Trouser : White denim pant

Shoes : Lorenzo loafers Lecco Last Kangaroo Leather Testa di Moro

SON:

Luca Viel, Look by Fendi

FATHER:

Shyam Bhatia, Chairman Alam Steel Group

Jacket : Jersey Shirt Jacket Opened Cotton Pique

Trouser : Leather Tab Classic Chino Cotton Linen Twill Corda

Shirt : White cotton shirt

Shoes : Alessandro Lace-up court shoe in Venezia Leather Cacao

SON:

Vikram Bhatia, CEO Alam Steel Group

Jacket : Leather Treated Field Jacket Ruggine

Shirt : White cotton shirt

Shoes : Gaspard Derbies, Galet Last in Venezia Leather Cacao

FATHER:

Wajih Nakkash, Creative Director Nakkash Gallery

Jacket : Calf Suede Leather Blazer in caffe color

Knitwear : Herringbone Stitch Roll Neck in navy blue

Trouser : Classic Denim Chino in Cotton and silk

Shoes : Lorenzo Loafers Lecco Last in Kangaroo Leather, color Testa Di Moro

SON:

Omar Nakkash, Interior Designer

Jacket : Contrasted stitching leather shirt jacket in vermillon color

Trouser : Classic Chino Cotton in navy blue

Shirt : Polo Pique in blue

Shoes : Lorenzo Loafers Lecco Last in Kangaroo Leather in Testa di moro color

FATHER:

Bijan Sheibani, Managing Director DTHI

Jacket : Corduroy Suede Front Cardigan in navy cotton cashmere

Shoes : Alessandro Lace-up court shoe in Venezia Leather Cacao color

SON:

Shahryar Sheibani, Managing Director DTHI

Jacket : Calf Suede Leather Blazer in Caffe color

Shirt : White cotton shirt

Trouser : Classic Chino Cotton Navy

Shoes : Lorenzo Loafers Lecco Last in Kangaroo Leather Testa di Moro

FATHER & SON:

Adrian Jossa, Banker/Hotelier

Jacket : Ligh Calf Reversible Blouson Navy

Scarf : Irregular bicolour check scarf in Caramel

Trouser : 5 pocket denim pants Indigo

Shoes : Lorenzo loafers, Lecco Last in Kangaroo Leather Testa di Moro

Tiffany Keys: Kaleidoscope key with white and yellow diamonds in platinum and 18k yellow gold and Enchant heart key with white and pink diamonds in platinum and 18k rose gold

Paloma Picasso® Olive Leaf necklace, cuff and rock crystal drop earrings with diamonds set in 18k white gold

Round diamond contour ring of 11.17 carats, set in platinum

Dress by Lazaro @ Esposa

Lucida® diamond drop necklace and earrings

Jean Schlumberger® 36-Stone bracelets set in platinum and 18k yellow gold

Stack of rings: Tiffany diamond bands and Jean Schlumberger® 16-Stone ring set in platinum and 18k yellow gold

Lucida® diamond drop necklace and earrings

Jean Schlumberger® 36-Stone bracelets set in platinum and 18k yellow gold

Stack of rings: Tiffany diamond bands and Jean Schlumberger® 16-Stone ring set in platinum and 18k yellow gold

Dress by Monique Lhuillier @ Esposa

Diamond flower drop earrings, pendant featuring a 3.59 carat diamond., and flower ring with a 2.09ct solitaire diamond, all set in platinum

Tiffany Garden flower bracelet and Tiffany Cobblestone diamond band ring, all set in platinum

Dress by Carolina Herrera @ Esposa

Diamond cluster earrings and bracelet set in platinum

Jean Schlumberger® 16-Stone ring set in platinum

Dress by La Sposa @ Esposa

Ellipse wide bracelet with round brilliant diamonds

Art Deco inspired diamond ring with a 5.01 carat solitaire diamond

Lucida® diamond drop earrings, all set in platinum

Dress by Lazaro @ Esposa

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

Diamond scroll drop earrings with Keshi pearls

Diamond cluster bracelet

Diamond flower ring with a 2.09ct solitaire diamond, all set in platinum

Tiffany Enchant scroll earrings in platinum with diamonds

Jean Schlumberger® 36-Stone bracelets set in platinum and 18k yellow gold

Yellow diamond ring with a 3.06ct diamond, set in platinum and 18k yellow gold

Dresses by Savina Deluca @ Esposa

Photograper :  Tina Patni

Art Director :  Stuart Robertson

Hair & Makeup :  Marisol Steward

Bridal Dresses : Esposa Bridal Boutique – Dubai

Models : Melody @ LMM models / Kelly T @ Wilhelmina Models Dubai

Through the cobblestoned streets

They strolled hand in hand

With mountains in the distance

A true romance began

And for this moment

They had plenty of time on their hands

Him : Luminor Submersible 1950 3 Days Automatic CERAMICA

Her : Luminor Marina 1950 3 Days Automatic

Her look : Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane

His look : Moschino

 Luminor 1950 Chrono

Monopulsante Lefthanded

8 Days Titanio

SUIT : Moschino

 Luminor Marina 1950

3 Days Automatic

Her look : Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane

 Pocket Watch 3 Days

Oro Bianco

Her look : Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane

 Luminor Submersible 1950

3 Days Power Reserve

Automatic BRONZO

SWEATER : Giorgio Armani

For him : Radiomir 1940 Chronograph Oro Bianco

For her : Luminor 1950 3 Days GMT Automatic Acciaio

FUR COAT : Fendi

  Radiomir 1940

Oro Rosso

Her look : Moschino

 Radiomir 1940

Chronograph Platino

SHIRT : Giorgio Armani

 Radiomir 1940

Chronograph Oro Bianco

DRESS : Gucci

 Luminor Marina 8 Days Oro Rosso

& Pocket Watch 3 Days Oro Rosso

 Radiomir 1940 – 42mm

DRESS : Markus Lupfer @ Sauce boutique

For him : Luminor Marina 8 Days Oro Rosso

For her : Radiomir 1940 – 42mm

What is the brand’s strategy to hold on to this heritage?

I think in terms of manufacturing and products the strategy hasn’t changed since the last twelve years. We wanted to be more high-watchmaking and more integrated. This was always the idea for a brand since 1868. And now we have reached the level of volumes where we can achieve this. Thank God!

People ask me why do we invest in such a period of time, and I say: we are in a watch industry and not in finance; we can’t do deals in a week. We have been thinking about this manufacturing center since three years. Our aim is to be there for the coming 150 years. The industry part and the manufacturing part have been very stable and with a clear vision.

Then comes the communication, product execution and supplies like the Portofino midsize for instance, this is something you feel depending indeed on a certain development.

The world is changing!

We have to constantly live with ups and downs. We are not only sunshine managers.

The most important thing in the watch industry is to believe in the Long-term trends and always have in mind that you can’t fight demography. You have more and more wealth and more people have access to watches. You have a middle class rising up in Asia. You have to constantly adapt with products, ideas and communications depending on the maturity of the brands and the social economic environment. You have to feel it, and this is what I explained last week in Dubai. The brand is mature enough to extend our product offering like we did with the midsize Portofino for ladies. We are a brand that balances modernity and tradition and we want to be an attractive cool brand, but with strong roots. It is a difficult balance! But this is how we want to communicate.

Luxury is an emotion that you feel. If it was a rational science everybody will be successful. You need to feel and understand the market and to be strong enough to be a trendsetter, take risks and even fail.

Yes, there are fundamentals in strategy in terms of industry, movements and products but there are things, which are more variable depending on an environment, and the situation that you face. Whatever you do, you just have to be faithful to the brand.

PORTOFINO MIDSIZE

PORTOFINO MIDSIZE

What are customers looking for today?

The first aspect is how do you purchase? You purchase in a way that you want to be safe, and you don’t want to take risks. You have a limited budget for everything. In this environment you want a go for something secure. The second aspect is what kind of image you want to project? What type of person are you? A certain image that corresponds to your own personality.

What image does IWC project?

I always say IWC is one of the biggest niche brands in the world! We are not a mainstream brand.

We have an understated yet recognizable design. Everybody recognizes a Pilot, a Portuguese and a Portofino but it is not show-off. The fact that it’s Schaffhausen and not Milan or New York gives a special touch to the brand.

We represent Modernity, coolness linked to tradition.

What is a challenging objective you would still want to achieve?

There are many things to do!

You know every soccer coach dreams of the perfect match, the perfect tactic the perfect combination, a fluid game and the perfect attacks.

As managers we dream about the same things! The ultimate dream would be perfection in your product collection, in having the perfect beauty, technique and dream association. The perfect goal but multiplied by 6.

This is what we are aiming for. I think we are doing great with the Portuguese, the Aquatimer, the Portofino, but still lots to do on other things to make it perfect.

Again, it’s having the dream game, the dream goal and the dream team. When you are running a brand like this, it all comes down to the product. The perfection of the product is not only in marketing, in industry and in movement. The perfection of a product needs the combination of three elements: the design, the technology and the dream. And I am always in search of the perfection!

You are building a new production facility center which in a couple of years you will be producing more watches. When it comes to fully functional, will IWC still be a niche brand?

To be precise, when you build a new manufacturing center you do 3 things:

First, You put sites together where you have concentration of production.

Second: Perfection. You want the ultimate up to date production facility in terms of techniques, and you can’t have those if you have different locations.

Third: Growth. We will grow in the coming years and I still believe that the way we are structured we will still be a bigger niche brand. We are not a mainstream brand. The stamina is not being a mainstream.

How will you manage that?

In being distinctive in everything we are doing. Mainstream has something to do with price. We have to constantly be creative in the way we create the dream.

Nobody buys a watch only to read time. It’s a feeling!

We need to create attraction in people’s minds. There is no rational recipe for this, but the team is really experienced and they know how to do it.

What’s in the pipeline for IWC in terms of new boutique openings?

We will open soon in Bonds street-London and in Miami design district.

We currently have 75 boutiques around the world and 50 internal boutiques.

We are to open at The Mall of Emirates in Dubai. Many places to be present at, but we are waiting for the perfect locations.

Are you satisfied with the performance of the brand in the Middle East?

Yes very much, especially in Dubai. That city is dominating the scene.

When I think about the mall of the world, and the plan to build 100 hotels around it, I think there is space to sell watches.

Tell us more about the latest Portofino Midsize watches for ladies and its impact in the market?

We are very happy of the way it was received! It is an amazing line.

A brand is a living organism; you don’t behave today the way you behaved fifteen years ago.The brand had to evolve and we were more than ready, especially with the Portofino line.

This collection is Feminine yet with a statement. I think this line was a natural evolution, and we still remained faithful to our brand.

Interviewed by Lara Mansour Sawaya